how I balance cocktails and mocktails for better well-being
Navigating the world of drinks can feel a bit like walking on eggshells sometimes. On one side, there’s the world of cocktails — those carefully crafted creations that elevate a moment and bring a little extra sparkle to life. On the other, there are mocktails — the alcohol-free option that’s becoming just as trendy, fun, and flavorful as its boozy counterparts.
For years, I didn’t even consider mocktails as a real option. Alcohol was always a part of my social fabric. Whether it was a glass of wine with dinner, a margarita on a sunny afternoon, or my signature espresso martini at brunch, I didn’t think twice about having a drink. But as I began my sober curious journey (which you can read more about in my previous posts), I started questioning my relationship with alcohol. Was I drinking because I truly wanted to, or was it just out of habit?
My Sober Curious Journey
In my early sober curious days, I decided to experiment. I played with the idea of not drinking at all and discovering new ways to enjoy myself without alcohol. There’s something about living in a world where every social event seems to revolve around drinking that can make you wonder if you’re missing out on something, or if you’re simply stuck in a routine.
I tried mocktails — lots of them. I experimented with alcohol-free cocktails like my lemon drop martini mocktail, which you can get the recipe for here. At first, it felt like a novelty. A way to still engage in the ritual of having a drink in hand while bypassing the alcohol. But what I found was that mocktails aren’t just a substitute for the real thing. They’re an opportunity for creativity, a chance to play with flavors, and craft something that feels just as exciting as an alcoholic drink without the hangover.
Returning to Cocktails
As my journey continued, I realized that it wasn’t about completely cutting alcohol out of my life, but rather about creating a healthier, more intentional relationship with it. Sometimes, a cocktail — in moderation — is exactly what I need to enhance an experience. Whether it’s a special celebration or simply a casual evening out with friends, there’s something undeniably enjoyable about the complexity of a perfectly made drink.
But here's the key: It’s all about balance. I’ve learned that it’s OK to have a cocktail, as long as I’m intentional about when and why I’m choosing to drink. It’s about listening to my body, respecting how I feel, and recognizing when I truly crave the flavors, and when I don’t need to reach for a drink at all.
For me, having a healthy relationship with alcohol doesn’t mean abstaining completely. It means choosing to drink thoughtfully and with purpose, ensuring that it’s a choice I make rather than something I feel obligated to do. It's about remembering that alcohol can be enjoyed without becoming a crutch or an automatic response.
The Takeaway — Drink in Moderation
The real takeaway here is this: It’s OK to drink, within reason. But it’s even more important to be aware of why you’re drinking and to maintain a healthy relationship with alcohol. Whether you’re enjoying a cocktail, sipping on a mocktail, or choosing not to drink at all, the most important thing is that you’re making a conscious decision that aligns with your well-being.
So, as I continue navigating this balance between cocktails and mocktails, I’m learning that it’s about embracing all the flavors of life with or without alcohol. It’s about savoring the moment, feeling present, and knowing that I have the power to choose what feels right for me in any given moment.
Whether it’s raising a glass of Prosecco or sipping a refreshing mocktail, I’ve learned to appreciate both worlds. And if you’re on a similar journey, I encourage you to take the time to reflect on your relationship with alcohol. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Find your balance, and savor the experience in a way that feels good to you.